Chapter 15: Friend

The ocean stretched endlessly before her, a vast, undulating expanse of deep, cobalt blue. Xena swam steadily, her golden tail shimmering like molten sunlight as it propelled her through the water. With each sweep of her fin, tiny bubbles rose and danced in her wake, catching what little light filtered from the surface above. It had been a full day since she left the familiar safety of her coral reef home, and she felt the growing weight of isolation pressing against her chest like the cool embrace of the ocean depths.The world around her was a medley of motion and stillness. To her left, a forest of swaying kelp reached toward the distant surface like fingers grasping for air. Their long, green stalks were home to a myriad of creatures-tiny shrimp flitted from one leaf to another, while schools of juvenile fish darted in synchronized patterns, their silvery bodies flashing like scattered stars. The bed of seagrass below swayed in rhythm with the ocean's gentle current, the soft green strands hiding burrowing crabs and small, camouflaged flounders.Her golden eyes, illuminated faintly by the active Eye of Truth skill, scanned every shadow, every ripple of movement. The skill allowed her to see through the deceptive tranquility of the ocean, revealing potential threats and the true nature of creatures around her. It had become her constant companion, an unwavering sentinel in a world that demanded vigilance.The water grew colder as Xena swam farther from her coral reef, the change in temperature sharp against her flawless skin. Her body reacted instinctively, her muscles flexing against the chill as her Tidal Vitality passively worked to replenish her energy. With the used of both tidal vitality and mana Absorption skills, she had replenished her MP and HP to the fullest. The current kissed her skin with a cool, refreshing embrace, while her flowing golden hair danced behind her like liquid fire.Her lips, full and coral pink, curled into a slight smile as she observed the mundane beauty of the ocean. She passed by a smaller coral reef, vibrant and teeming with life. Brightly colored clownfish peeked out from anemones, their orange bodies stark against the undulating green tendrils. A sleepy sea turtle grazed nearby, its ancient shell covered in small barnacles and seaweed, a reminder of its years spent roaming the vast oceans.Suddenly, a chime echoed in her mind, interrupting her quiet observations."Ding! Daily Quest Completed. Rewards: 3 Pearl Coins."Her eyes widened in mild surprise as the system notification appeared before her. The ethereal text hovered briefly, glowing faintly before fading away. She furrowed her brows, her beauty undiminished even in thought. "So I get rewarded for surviving?" she mused aloud, her melodic voice carried away by the currents. The stingy system had finally rewarded her, though the mere addition of three Pearl Coins did little to appease her irritation. "Twelve coins now... still not enough for anything worthwhile."Shaking off her frustration, she continued her journey.The ocean floor below became a patchwork of soft sand and jagged rock formations, each crevice home to a myriad of hidden creatures. Tiny hermit crabs scuttled between shells, and bioluminescent algae glowed faintly in the darker patches, creating an otherworldly glow.The faint sound of clicking-a chorus of shrimp-resonated around her, joined by the soft whoosh of the current and the occasional distant cry of dolphins. The air-or rather, the water-tasted faintly metallic, a tang that set her on edge.The sound reached her before the sight. Weak, irregular squeaks cut through the stillness, each one tinged with pain. The noise was faint but insistent, a cry for help that tugged at something deep within her. Xena's sharp ears pricked as she swam toward the source, her movements deliberate and cautious.As she approached, the scent of blood became unmistakable-a metallic tang that mixed with the salty undertones of the ocean. Her golden eyes scanned the seagrass, its long, undulating blades partially obscuring the sandy seabed. Finally, she saw it: a baby manatee, its round body floating weakly just above the sand.The sight tugged at her heartstrings. The creature's pale gray skin was marred with deep gashes, the edges of the wounds ragged and red. Xena's Eye of Truth flared as it identified the creature."Baby Manatee, Level 5

HP: 40/100"

The manatee's small, dark eyes blinked sluggishly, its tiny flippers twitching as it tried to right itself. The injuries looked fresh-claw marks likely from a predator. Its mother was nowhere in sight, a tragic confirmation of the creature's vulnerability. Xena hesitated, her stoic nature warring with a growing sense of pity. She swam closer, her movements slow and unthreatening."Poor thing," she murmured, her voice carrying the gentleness of a lullaby. "You're lucky to still be alive."Activating her Aqua Speech, she sent soothing thoughts to the creature, her words imbued with a faint glow of magic. The baby manatee blinked at her, its gaze trusting yet filled with exhaustion. "Stay still," she instructed as she activated her Healing Current.The water around the manatee glowed faintly as the healing magic enveloped it. The worst of its wounds began to close, though the deeper gashes only partially mended. Xena frowned, her delicate brows knitting together as the ability drained her mana."That's the best I can do," she said softly, reaching out to gently touch the creature's smooth, rubbery skin. It felt cool under her fingers, a reminder of its fragility."Ding! Hidden Quest Completed: Friend of the Ocean"Her golden eyes widened as the notification appeared, the rewards scrolling before her."Title Unlocked: Friend of the Ocean (Sea creatures are less likely to attack unless provoked.

Slight boost in communication with intelligent aquatic beings.)

New Ability: Ocean's Blessing

Passive: Near water, stamina regenerates faster. Defense against water-based attacks increases by 20%.

Bonus Experience: +50 EXP"

She blinked at the screen, momentarily taken aback. A hidden quest? She hadn't even realized such a thing existed.

As the notification faded, another appeared."Ding! Level up. 3 Stat Points Awarded. Choose one of these skills to unlock:

- Echo Pulse: Emit a sonar-like pulse to map the surroundings, detect enemies, and locate hidden paths and treasures. (30 minute use, 5 minutes cooldown, MP Usage: 2)

- Luminous Glow: Emit a soft light to illuminate dark areas and scare off weaker predators. (45 minute use, 10 minutes cooldown, MP Usage: 2)"

Without hesitation, she chose Echo Pulse, knowing its utility would complement her Eye of Truth.Just as she prepared to leave, the baby manatee swam weakly behind her. Xena sighed, her delicate shoulders rising and falling in resignation. "Fine," she murmured, gently cradling the creature in her arms. Its body was heavier than she expected, its skin smooth but slightly rough in patches."Just don't slow me down," she added, her tone softening as she resumed her journey.The ocean stretched before them, vast and mysterious. Each ripple of the current carried the promise of adventure-and danger. And yet, with the manatee in her arms and the growth of her abilities guiding her way, Xena pressed on, her golden form a beacon in the dark expanse of the sea.